This associate track examines how correctional facilities operate day to day, from custody and classification to the rehabilitation programs meant to reduce repeat offending. You'll learn the operational side of corrections work alongside the legal and ethical rules that govern how inmates must be treated.
Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as correctional officer trainee, case management assistant, and reentry support staff. The one-year format gives students a working knowledge of facility operations and inmate programming without a longer commitment.
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General Courses
10 Courses
GEN 101Introduction to the Humanities
A broad survey of the art, literature, and ideas that have shaped human culture.
- Landmark works in art and literature
- Philosophical movements across eras
- Interpreting cultural artifacts in context
GEN 102Social and Cultural Geography
Exploring how geography shapes societies, economies, and cultural identity.
- Population patterns and migration
- Urban and rural land use
- Regional cultural differences
GEN 103English Composition
Developing clear, well-organized writing for academic and professional contexts.
- Building a strong thesis and outline
- Paragraph structure and transitions
- Revising drafts for clarity and tone
GEN 104College Algebra
Building fluency with algebraic methods used across academic disciplines.
- Solving linear and quadratic equations
- Working with functions and graphs
- Applying algebra to real-world problems
GEN 105World Religions
A comparative look at the beliefs and practices of major world faiths.
- Core beliefs of major traditions
- Religious ritual and practice
- Religion's influence on society
GEN 106Ethics
Examining moral theories and how they apply to everyday decisions.
- Major ethical theories and frameworks
- Applying ethics to real-life dilemmas
- Evaluating competing moral claims
GEN 107Art Appreciation
Building a vocabulary for understanding and evaluating visual art.
- Elements and principles of design
- Major art movements through history
- Analyzing meaning in visual works
GEN 108Pre-Calculus
Strengthening the mathematical foundation needed for advanced coursework.
- Polynomial and rational functions
- Exponential and logarithmic relationships
- Trigonometric identities and graphs
GEN 109Human Biology
An introduction to how the human body functions at the systems level.
- Structure and function of major organ systems
- Cellular processes and genetics basics
- Health, nutrition, and disease prevention
GEN 110World History
Tracing major civilizations, conflicts, and turning points across the globe.
- Rise and fall of major civilizations
- Global trade and cultural exchange
- Key turning points of the modern era
CJ 125Introduction to Criminology
A foundational look at the theories researchers use to explain why crime occurs and who is affected by it.
- Major schools of criminological thought
- How theory informs crime prevention policy
- Measuring and interpreting crime trends
CJ 585Investigation
Core techniques investigators use to gather facts, preserve evidence, and build a reliable case file.
- Planning a systematic investigation
- Documenting evidence and witness statements
- Assessing the reliability of information sources
LLS 642Introduction to Laws
An overview of the legal principles and statutes that shape decision-making across the justice system.
- Sources and structure of the legal system
- Distinguishing civil and criminal law
- How statutes and case law are applied
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Specialist Courses
3 Courses
COR 387Fundamentals of Correctional Counseling
Basic counseling techniques used to support behavioral change among incarcerated individuals.
- Building rapport in a counseling setting
- Common behavioral intervention approaches
- Documenting counseling progress
COR 402Introduction to Crime and Punishment
A look at how societies define offenses and determine appropriate consequences.
- Historical approaches to punishment
- Goals of modern sentencing practices
- Balancing deterrence and rehabilitation
COR 527Research Methods in Corrections
Methods used to evaluate the effectiveness of correctional programs and policy.
- Designing a program evaluation
- Measuring recidivism outcomes
- Interpreting correctional research data
$48,000
Total Program Cost
Fees are billed per term and are subject to change. Financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment plans are available to students who qualify.
Explore Financial Aid
Admission requires High School Diploma or GED.
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Submit Your Application
Complete the online application with your basic and academic details.
An admissions advisor reviews your application and any transfer credit.
Receive your decision, complete enrollment, and start your first term.
Apply Now